NEWS AGENCY OF NIGERIA
Soaring temperature: NAHCON advises pilgrims to stay in tents from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m
Foreign

Soaring temperature: NAHCON advises pilgrims to stay in tents from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m

239 total views today

By Deji Abdulwahab

The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has advised pilgrims to stay in their tents from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. due to soaring daytime temperatures during the pilgrimage.

The Chairman of NAHCON, Prof. Abdullahi Saleh, gave the advice while speaking to newsmen in Makkah on Sunday.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Saudi Arabia, through its National Centre of Meteorology (NCM), had on Sunday issued heatwave warnings for Hajj 2025.

The centre urged pilgrims to take precautions amid soaring daytime temperatures between 40°C and 47°C.

The NCM forecasted challenging weather, including high temperatures, potential thunderstorms, and reduced visibility.

Saleh said NAHCON had a stakeholders’ meeting with all the Nigeria Muslims Pilgrims Welfare Boards.

He said the boards were mandated to tell their pilgrims that no pilgrim would be allowed out of their  tents in Mina and Arafat due to soaring temperature.

“Yesterday we called all the stakeholders. We met with them and mandated them to announce and tell their people that nobody is allowed to be out of the tent from 10 a.m. till 4 p.m.

“It is not advised to go out because the temperature is not normal this year. We also advised them to continue drinking water.

“If it is necessary to be outside, let them go with water in hand. Let them take their umbrellas and use them, because the temperature is not normal.

The NAHCON chairman urged the media to help the commission to disseminate the information to the pilgrims to adhere to the heatwave warnings.

“So, media, please you are our eyes, you are our voice to the public. Help us tell our people to adhere to this instruction.”

NAN reports that approximately 63,000 Nigerian pilgrims are expected for the 2025 Hajj. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Sadiya Hamza

Buhari mourns Niger flood victims, Kano athletes’ death
General News

Buhari mourns Niger flood victims, Kano athletes’ death

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By Emmanuel Oloniruha

Former President Muhammadu Buhari has condoled with the victims of the Niger flood and the Kano athletes that died in an auto accident.

 

This followed the death of more than one hundred persons in flash floods that destroyed homes and displaced thousands of residents last week in Niger.

 

The death was also recorded of 22 young athletes, coaches, and officials in a ghastly auto crash in Kano state after the Ogun games in Abeokuta.

 

Buhari, in a statement by his spokesman, Garba Shehu, sympathised with the bereaved families, governments and the people of Niger and Kano states over the incident.

 

The former president said that the tragic incidents, happening in a quick sequence had left him shocked and devastated as it did many people in different parts of the world.

 

“I am deeply pained  by the loss of lives due to the floods in Niger state and the road accident in Kano state.

 

‘’The deaths are painful and devastating. Condolences to the families and friends of all those who have lost their loved ones. May the injured recover soon.”(NAN)

Edited by Ismail Abdulaziz

Niger woos Dangote on Bida crude oil exploration
General News

Niger woos Dangote on Bida crude oil exploration

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By Rita Iliya

Minna, June 1, 2025(NAN) Gov. Umar Bago of Niger has called for partnership with the Dangote Group in the exploration and development of the discovered oil blocks in Niger State’s Bida Basin.

 

Bago said that the group would significantly contribute to the exploration project with its proven expertise in the energy sector in the country.

 

The governor said this while addressing industry leaders at the Dangote Special Day event at the Niger National Trade Fair in Minna on Saturday.

 

Bago said that the state was “open for business” regarding Bida Basin oil development, calling for private sector investment and expertise in the state’s hydrocarbon exploration.

 

The governor, represented by Hamza Sarki, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Investment, acknowledged Dangote Group’s proven capacity in executing large-scale industrial projects.

 

He cited the successful delivery of the world’s largest single-train refinery in Nigeria as evidence of its technical expertise and operational excellence.

 

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Dangote Group is the major sponsor of the 2025 Niger State National Trade Fair.

 

The Governor described the Bida Basin oil discovery as Niger State’s ticket to economic prosperity, and win-win for partnership with relevant players in the oil sector.

 

A 2023 geological survey report identified 17 commercially viable oil blocks in Niger, with estimated hydrocarbon reserves projected to sustain production for approximately 70 years.

 

The Bida Basin, stretching across parts of Niger and Kwara States, has been identified as a promising sedimentary basin with hydrocarbon potential.

 

Representative of the Dangote Group, Mr Hashem Ahmed, said the company was investing massively in Niger State, adding that it was ready to partner the state to develop its potential.

 

“The Dangote Rice Mill in Wushishi when completed will enhance local rice production and drastically reduce post-harvest losses. We are also working closely with the Governor’s Office on the Niger Food Initiative—a game-changing agricultural programme.

 

“We have committed to serving as a guaranteed off taker for 1 million metric tons of paddy rice, creating a stable market and encouraging further private investment.”

 

Ahmed commended the proactive measures taken by the Bago administration to foster a business-friendly environment and stimulate private sector engagement in economic growth.

 

He said that the government’s strategic policies, such as the planned establishment of a Free Trade Zone, demonstrate a clear commitment to attracting investment, enhancing trade, and positioning Niger as a hub for industrial and agricultural development.

 

“For Dangote Group and the broader Organized Private Sector, these initiatives represent a significant and encouraging step forward.

 

‘’The Free Trade Zone provides a competitive advantage by streamlining business operations, reducing bottlenecks, and creating a conducive ecosystem for large-scale investments,” he said.(NAN)

Edited by Ismail Abdulaziz

China to establish first African history, culture museum
Foreign

China to establish first African history, culture museum

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By Sarafina Christopher

The China-Africa Institute at the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences has announced plans to establish the first museum dedicated to African history and culture in China, signaling a significant step in fostering cultural exchange between the two regions.

 

Mr Ye Hailin, Director of the China-Africa Institute, revealed these plans during an ongoing Workshop themed ‘China-Africa Cooperation in the New Era: Responsibilities of Think Tanks and Media’, on Saturday in Beijing.

 

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the workshop was organised by the International Department of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of China(IDCPC).

 

According to him, the proposed museum aims to celebrate the rich tapestry of African heritage, showcasing artifacts, artworks, and historical narratives that highlight the continent’s diverse cultures and traditions.

 

“We believe that the museum will serve not only as an educational resource but also as a platform for fostering dialogue and collaboration between Chinese and African scholars, artists, and communities.

 

“The museum is expected to attract both local and international visitors, providing a unique perspective on African history that is often overlooked in traditional narratives,” he said.

 

Ye also highlighted that China was in the process of establishing five China-Africa research centres, announced by Chinese President Xi Jinping as part of the Beijing-Southeast Asia 2024 partnership actions.

 

“One of these centres will be based in South Africa, where we have conducted extensive consultations with the executive academy there,” he added, stating that an agreement for cooperation had already been signed.

 

“The establishment of the first China-Africa research centre is expected to be officially inaugurated before the upcoming G20 Summit in South Africa later this year.

 

“We are currently in the legal negotiation phase, and we are optimistic about launching this center as a hub for collaborative research and exchange,” Ye said.

 

According to him, the initiative also focuses on enhancing media relations, with active exchange programmes planned for African media and journalists, aimed at promoting bilateral understanding and cooperation.

 

He emphasised that these efforts reflected China’s commitment to deepening its partnership with African nations through cultural diplomacy and academic collaboration.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Bashir Rabe Mani

Botswana speaker lauds China for supporting Africa’s dev’t
Foreign

Botswana speaker lauds China for supporting Africa’s dev’t

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By Sarafina Christopher

Mr Dithapelo Keorapetse, Speaker of the National Assembly of the Republic of Botswana has lauded  China for its commitment to Africa’s development.

 

Keorapetse said this on Friday at the opening of the 4th Dialogue on Exchanges and Mutual Learning Among Civilizations in Dunhuang, China.

 

The event is being hosted by the Chinese Association for International Understanding and the People’s government of Gansu Province in China.

 

The speaker, representing delegates from Africa highlighted China’s role as a key partner in Africa’s socio-economic transformation.

 

He cited infrastructural projects, technology transfer, and educational exchanges as pillars of cooperation between China and Africa.

 

“China’s support has been instrumental in advancing Africa’s development agenda.

 

“From railways to digital innovation, our partnership exemplifies mutual respect and shared progress under the principles of the Global Civilisation Initiative,” he said.

 

Keorapetse praised President Xi Jinping’s three global initiatives: the Global Development Initiative, Global Security Initiative, and Global Civilisation Initiative.

 

According to the Botswana speaker, the initiatives remain crucial even as they serve as resources for generating new opportunities for the Global South.

 

He highlighted China’s role in Botswana’s developmental efforts since it’s  independence in 1966.

 

Keorapetse also highlighted China’s instrumental role in enhancing the his country’s infrastructural development and other benefits through the nations’ bilateral cooperation.

 

“When Botswana gained independence, we had fewer than 10 kilometers of tarred roads. China aided in rehabilitating our railway system, transforming 522 kilometers of track with a $99 million interest-free loan.

 

“Beyond infrastructure advancements, there is a flourishing cultural and educational exchanges between the two nations, including the establishment of the Confucius Institute at the University of Botswana in collaboration with Shanghai Normal University.

 

“These institutes play a pivotal role in promoting the Chinese language and facilitating cross-cultural exchanges,” he said.

 

Keorapetse, however, acknowledged the challenges facing multilateralism, including armed conflicts, global health crises, climate change, and the rise of nationalism, which have hindered international cooperation.

 

“It is for this reason that we look to China to partnering with us in the Global South to mitigate the adverse effects of these global challenges.

 

“We also reiterate our commitment to continuous collaboration with China,” he said.(NAN)(www.nannews.com.ng)

Edited by Shuaib Sadiq/Bashir Rabe Mani

China pledges deeper ties with Africa
Foreign

China pledges deeper ties with Africa

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By Sarafina Christopher

The Chinese Counselor at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Mr Shen Sha, has reaffirmed China’s unwavering commitment to strengthening the longstanding ties between Africa and China.

 

Shen gave the assurance at the ongoing African Think Tank and Media Workshop organised by the International Department of the Communist Party of China’s Central Committee in Beijing.

 

According to him, the historical connection between China and Africa spans more than eight decades.

 

”China’s engagement with Africa dates back to the eight century when Chinese explorers embarked on historic voyages to the continent, laying the groundwork for enduring cultural and trade relationships.”

 

Shen noted that China values unity and collaboration with African nations as a cornerstone of its foreign policy.

 

He added that the country remained steadfast in its support for Africa’s development aspirations.

 

”We embrace the principles of a strong and harmonious East Africa and are dedicated to aligning Chinese interests with those of the African people.

 

”China’s growth and the international stature may evolve, but our commitment to fostering partnerships with Africa remains resolute,” he said.

 

The counselor also said that China stands ready to champion African countries’ rights on the global stage, advocating for fair and inclusive international policies that safeguard the interests of developing nations.

 

He further pledged China continued backing for Africa’s self-reliant initiatives, supporting peace-building efforts, and facilitating inclusive governance practices tailored to African contexts.

 

”We envision a future where China and Africa advance hand in hand, sharing developmental opportunities and mutual prosperity.

 

”China’s enduring support for Africa’s advancement is unwavering, and we stand ready to provide assistance within our means,” he said.

 

Shen also highlighted the exponential growth in trade and investment between China and Africa, underscoring China’s role as Africa’s largest trading partner for the 16th consecutive year.

 

”Notably, Chinese investments have spurred economic growth and jobs creation across Africa, underlining President Xi Jinping’s personal commitment to nurturing China-Africa relations.

 

”China’s promise of continued engagement extends to expanding investment cooperation, enhancing agricultural and manufacturing partnerships, and empowering African nations to harness their resources for sustainable development,” he said.

 

Ms Lindiwe Zulu, Head of the African delegation and member of South Africa’s African National Congress (ANC), expressed appreciation to China for its steadfast support of Africa’s progress.

 

Zulu emphasised the importance of equitable partnerships and African unity as the keys to prosperity.

 

She expressed optimism that China would uphold Africa as an equal and esteemed partner, paving the way for shared success and enduring friendship.

 

NAN reports that the delegation comprises 20 Think tank and Media agencies representatives from various African countries including Nigeria, South Africa, Zimbabwe, Zambia, Ghana, among others. (NAN)(www.nannews.com.ng)

Edited by Cecilia Odey/Deborah Coker

Chinese VP advocates respect across civilisations to promote dialogue
Foreign

Chinese VP advocates respect across civilisations to promote dialogue

278 total views today

By Sarafina Christopher

The Vice-President of the People’s Republic of China, Han Zheng, has called for greater understanding and respect among different cultures and civilisations worldwide to foster peaceful relations.

 

The vice-president stated this on Friday during the opening ceremony of the 4th Dialogue on Exchanges and Mutual Learning Among Civilisations.

 

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the three-day event is themed: ‘Carrying Forward the Spirit of the Silk Road and Gathering Momentum for the Implementation of the Global Civilisation Initiative’.

 

The event was hosted by the Chinese Association for International Understanding and the People’s Government of Gansu Province.

 

He emphasised the significance of respect among civilisations as the cornerstone for constructing a harmonious and collaborative world.

 

Zheng said, “It is solely through sincere dialogue, mutual education, and respect that humanity can effectively tackle the challenges of today, ranging from climate adjustments to worldwide health dilemmas.”

 

He highlighted the need to move beyond differences and promote a spirit of inclusiveness, emphasising that each civilisation has unique contributions to offer.

 

The Chinese VP implored nations to approach each other with receptivity and to search for common ground in the pursuit of shared prosperity.

 

Zheng lauded Dunhuang as a haven for diverse religions and cultures, a central point along the historic Silk Road.

 

He observed that the enduring principles of peace, collaboration, and reciprocal advantage depicted by the Silk Road served as a framework for intercultural interactions between the Eastern and Western worlds.

 

“To advance the spirit of these principles and implement the Global Civilisation Initiative, this dialogue is of great practical importance,” Zheng

 

He referenced President Xi Jinping’s vision from March 2023, which advocated respect for the diversity of world civilisations and the promotion of shared human values.

 

Additionally, Zheng introduced four fundamental notions to advance civilisational dialogue.

 

Firstly, he emphasised the need for mutual respect and recognition, asserting that each civilisation was unique and valuable.

 

Zheng encouraged inclusive communication to foster collaboration among various cultures.

 

Secondly, he discussed the importance of acknowledging both the commonalities and differences among civilisations, advocating for a united approach to tackle global challenges.

 

By emphasising shared human values, he called for collective efforts to overcome barriers and enrich civilisational exchanges.

 

He also stressed the importance of innovation and continuity in cultural development, stating that the evolution of civilisations relied on learning from history while embracing new ideas.

 

“The innovative transformation of traditional cultures is essential in our modernising world,” Zheng remarked.

 

Lastly, he called for genuine dialogue and cooperative engagement as crucial for enhancing mutual understanding and friendship among nations.

 

Zheng reiterated China’s commitment to promoting civilisational dialogue, mentioning the establishment of an international day dedicated to such discussions, which had earned global support.

 

NAN also reports that about 400 people, including political leaders, experts and scholars from multiple countries, heads of international and non-governmental organisations, as well as Chinese Government representatives, attended the ceremony.

 

Other international guests also delivered speeches at the event, highlighting that the three major global initiatives.

 

They included the Global Civilisation Initiative, proposed by Chinese Jinping, contribute to greater mutual understanding and exchanges among different civilisations.

 

The highlight of the event was the showcasing of cultural dances and exhibits to show the historical significance of Dunhuang. (NAN)(www.nannews.com.ng)

Edited by Bashir Rabe Mani

Golf and Tour charity visits orphanages in Niger on its 12th edition
Sports

Golf and Tour charity visits orphanages in Niger on its 12th edition

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By Rita Iliya

The Golf and Tour Charity Association of Nigeria has commenced its 12th edition in Minna, with a pledge to contribute to orphanages in the state.

 

Wing Commander Dangana Sarki, Chairman of the Minna Local Organising Committee, disclosed this during a press conference in Minna on Thursday.

 

Sarki said the edition, starting from May 29 to May 31, was not only to play golf, but to also give back to the community through charity activities.

 

He disclosed that the association would visit orphanages during the tournament and contribute to their well-being.

 

He said the association comprises of members from various entities including the military, security agencies, public servants, and traditional rulers.

 

“Any state we hold our tournament, we take our time to visit orphanages, the needy to see how we can contribute to their wellbeing.

 

“This initiative is part of the association efforts to impact positively in the society while promoting the game of golf,” he said.

 

He explained that the tournament was expected to boost the local economy with 100 golfers from across the country lodging in hotels while participating in various activities.

 

Retired Brig.-Gen. Mohammed Onoyiveta, Chief Coordinator of the association, said that the group has completed orphanages, installed solar panels, and carried out medical outreach in states.

 

He said the association aimed to dispel the notion that golf is an elitist game.

 

“There is a perception about the game of golf as an elitist game.

 

“But despite that, for us in our group, we feel that society is very critical, and members of the society are very important, particularly the less privileged ones,” he added.

 

Also, Mr Jerry Gerald, Vice Captain of Minna Golf Club, expressed gratitude for the tournament, describing it as a privilege for the people of Niger state.(NAN)

Edited by Ismail Abdulaziz

Niger CAN felicitates Bago on 2 years anniversary
General News

Niger CAN felicitates Bago on 2 years anniversary

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By Rita Iliya

The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in Niger has congratulated Gov. Umaru Bago on his two years in office.

 

Rev. Bulus Yohanna, Chairman of CAN in Niger, in a statement in Minna on Thursday, described the governor’s achievements as tremendous, citing his commitment to transforming the state.

 

He noted that the governor had made significant progress in road rehabilitation and reconstruction, education, agriculture, women and youth development and healthcare delivery services.

 

“We thank God for the governor’s life and pray for wisdom, protection, guidance and good health,” he said.

 

Yohanna appealed to the people of the state to rally round the governor to ensure his success and assure him that  Christendom would continue to pray for him.

 

He added that the governor had written his name in ‘gold ‘in the history of Niger since its creation over four decades ago.

 

According to him, we commend you for placing high premium on education, agriculture, women and youth development, healthcare delivery services.

 

“As well as reconstruction and rehabilitation of feeder roads across the 25 local government areas of the state,” he added. (NAN)

Edited by Augusta Uchediunor/Joe Idika

Anniversary: Niger Govt. unveils achievements in 2 years
General News

Anniversary: Niger Govt. unveils achievements in 2 years

259 total views today

By Rita Iliya
Government of Niger has unveiled its administration achievements with the various commissioners highlighting key achievements in their respective ministries.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the commissioners took turns, at a news conference on Thursday in Minna, to unveil their achievements in the last two years.

Dr Bello Tukur, Commissioner for Secondary and Tertiary Health, said that when the Bago-led administration came on board, the state was facing lack of medical doctors and healthcare workers and the governor immediately approved recruitment of 1,000 healthcare workers.

Tukur said the administration had employed 36 doctors, bringing the total number of doctors to 219.

He said the state government had commenced the remodeling and equipping of the IBB Specialist Hospital, with plan to installed an MRI machine, the first in a government hospital in Northern Nigeria.

He said the governor approved a 100 per cent Consolidated Medical Salary Structure (CONMESS) for medical staff and aligned the entry point for doctors with the Federal Government practice, at CONMESS 3.

The commissioner added that the state government was working to address infrastructure challenges, including the fencing of General Hospital in Kuta and commencement of general renovation.

Also speaking, Dr Ibrahim Dangana, Commissioner for Primary Healthcare, said that before the coming of Bago children in 12 local governments had not been immunised.

Dangana said that as of now children in 11 out of the 12 local government areas had been immunized except those in Mashegu Local Government, which would be accomplished soon.

“We have built an emergency operations center with support from the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation,” he said.

He added that the ministry had rehabilitated 20 primary healthcare centres, with plans to revitalise 40 more with the support from development partners.

Dangana said the governor recently inaugurated 20 level two primary healthcare centres, with a plan to build 100 primary healthcare centres across the state.

Also, Mr Elizabeth Shaba, Commissioner, Ministry for Small Medium Enterprise in Niger, said the ministry through the Micro Medium and Small Enterprise Agency had disbursed over N8 million so far under NG-CARES.

She added that the ministry also trained youths and women in entrepreneurship skills and empowered 200 youths with N100,000 each and provided loans to women under cooperative societies.

Similarly, Mr Musa Bawa, Commissioner for Agriculture, said the ministry provided extension services and mechanisation to Nigerlites and procured over 3,000 machines and equipment for agriculture.

Musa, who was represented by Malam Ali Maikasuwa, the Director of Agricultural Services, said the ministry also distributed fertilizers at 50 per cent subsidy, harvested over five million metric tonnes of grains, and trained farmers on carbon credits.

Also, Commissioner for Homeland Security, retired Brig.-Gen. Mohammed Bello, said the administration of Bago had prioritised security because security was the primary responsibility of the government.

He said part of the achievements was the provision of operational vehicles for security agencies and shifted focus from kinetic to non-kinetic approaches.

Similarly, Dr Murtala Bagana, Special Adviser to Niger Governor on Special Duties, said the Bago-led administration had attracted foreign investment through his foreign trips with countries like Russia.

He said the state government had embraced agriculture and livestock for sustainable development and embarked on urban renewal projects through overhaul of road infrastructure amongst others.(NAN)
Edited by Joe Idika

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